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Saturday, August 04, 2007

Observations on "Family Night" scrimmage

The Packers held their annual "Family Night" scrimmage in Lambeau Field tonight. And, as always, 60,000 fans show up -- actually pay -- to watch the action. Only in Green Bay. And that's said with pride. Of course, for those who couldn't make it to Lambeau, the scrimmage was carried live on statewide TV. Only in Wisconsin. And, again, that's said with pride.

A few observations, in no particular order:

Brett Favre directed two opening TD drives against the #2 defense, looking extremely sharp on his throws. Both Donald Driver and Gregg Jennings made some excellent catches. Later, in a two minute drill, Brett was intercepted by Nick Collins on a bad throw to the endzone.

Shaun Bodiford had a nice kickoff run back, finally being forced out of bounds by the kicker, Dave Rayner. David Clowney, rookie wide receiver, returned a kickoff for a TD. It should be noted in both cases, though, that there was no tackling allowed on special teams during the scrimmage. Still, both Bodiford and Clowney showed exceptional speed.

The #1 defensive line seemed to put constant pressure on backup QB Aaron Rodgers who looked, well, like Aaron Rodgers under pressure. When given time, however, Rodgers completed some nice throws...not including an ill-advised toss up interception in the endzone.

Third-year RB Noah Herron now is the "oldest" back on the team in terms of tenure with the Packers. Scary, isn't it?

Rookie QB Paul Thompson, a free agent signing out of Oklahoma, showed a live arm and exhibited good movement in and out of the pocket. He was picked off on a tipped pass at the line of scrimmage. If you want to know more about Thompson -- who knew the Pack even had him? -- go here. Interesting prospect. Practice squad candidate? Or bumps Ingle Martin out of the #3 spot?

Tramon Williams, second year CB, delivered a huge hit on WR Chris Francies to break up a completion.

In the field goal kicking competition at the end of the scrimmage, incumbent Dave Rayner missed a couple, as did rookie Mason Crosby. The kickers kicked from both ends of the stadium, various yardages and placements, and also switched holders. Call it a draw.

So, it seems as if everyone got out unscathed with no injuries. That's the best outcome of all.

Now, the team gets ready for their first preseason game next weekend at Pittsburgh. Oh yeah!